Giving birth is probably the hardest thing you’ll ever do. If you’ve given birth vaginally, then you’ve just pushed a tiny human out of your body. It’s intense! If you had a cesarean section, then you’ve just gone through a major surgery — and you may have done quite a bit of laboring before the surgery, as well. Either way, you’re almost certainly feeling quite sore and will need time to recover before jumping back into your daily routine. Here are some ways to help you feel refreshed and rejuvenated during your postpartum recovery period:
Let Other People Help:
This is one of the most important things you can possibly do to speed up your recovery. Even if you feel fairly energetic after a few days, it’s very easy to overdo it, and regret it later. When people offer their services, take them up on their offers whenever you can. If they don’t offer, but you want a hand, ask. You may normally be a self-sufficient, independent sort of person, but now is the time to let others help and pamper you. Enjoy it. It won’t last forever!
Stock up on Supplies:
After nine months of pregnancy and then childbirth, your entire body is going to need some R&R. Maxi pads, ice packs, and ibuprofen are just a few of the supplies you’ll want to have on hand. Be prepared to bleed and have discharge for several weeks as your body heals and gradually returns to its normal, non-pregnant state.
See a Good Doctor:
You want to have the best possible care during birth as well as throughout your pregnancy to ensure the easiest possible postpartum recovery. If you haven’t already, research doctors and hospitals, and make sure that your doctor and staff are competent and personable. For the sake of you and your baby’s health, make sure you don’t settle for someone who won’t provide the best possible care. After you’ve given birth, check with your caregiver to make certain everything with any labs or test results, particularly if you have any questions or concerns about your recovery or your little one’s health.
Take Care of Your Body:
Now isn’t the time to diet or head to the gym, but you should do your best to make sure your body is getting what it needs to stay healthy. Make sure you get enough sleep, and take extra naps if baby is keeping you up at night. Make sure your body is getting nutritious foods, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Very light exercise can also be beneficial and help you feel more energetic, although you should always check with your doctor before starting any new exercise regimine.
Pamper Yourself:
Taking care of a newborn can be exhausting and time-consuming, but do your best to find a bit of time to pamper yourself. Have your partner give you a massage, get a mani or pedi, and order takeout from your favorite restaurant. Find a favorite show to binge watch (or re-watch an old one!) for when your little one is insistent upon you nursing him or her for hours on end. Splurge on new clothes that make you look and feel great.
Uncomfortable as you may feel right after giving birth, remember that it won’t last long. Even a matter of a few days will make a big difference in how you feel, and in a few weeks, you’ll likely feel almost completely back to normal. Or, even better– your new normal. Best of all, you have a tiny new person to love, and years full of milestones and accomplishments to look forward to! Enjoy it. Time flies.
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